Top Delhi doctor reveals truth behind his friend's 'natural diabetes reversal', and it has nothing to do with "magic cures" we swear by

Magic cures are often celebrated, but what most people miss is the persistence and discipline that go into genuine transformation. A Delhi-based cardiologist, Dr Shailesh Singh, recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his friend’s story, someone who claimed to have “reversed” diabetes naturally.

However, as Dr Singh clarified, there was no magic potion or overnight miracle involved, only relentless lifestyle changes and consistency.

Diabetes Reversal That Everyone Overlooks

In his viral post, Dr Singh explained that his friend’s so-called effortless diabetes reversal was, in reality, a result of months of lifestyle overhaul. What it truly took was:

• Losing 20 kilograms of weight
• Walking 10 kilometres daily
• Getting 8 hours of sleep every night
• Exercising for an hour each day
• Quitting alcohol completely

He emphasised that health doesn’t come from miracle hacks or trending “natural” cures, but from consistent, everyday habits that often go unnoticed.

That friend who "reversed diabetes naturally" forgot to mention:

Lost 20 kg
Walks 10km daily
Sleeps 8 hours
Exercised 1 hr daily
Quit alcohol

But sure, it was the karela juice that did it.
We love magic cures more than mathematical ones.

— Dr Shailesh Singh (@drShaileshSingh) October 22, 2025

What Science Says About Reversing Diabetes Naturally

“Reversal” of diabetes refers to restoring normal blood sugar levels without medication, often through lifestyle modification. However, experts caution that reversal doesn’t mean a permanent cure, the condition can return if healthy habits aren’t maintained.

A study funded by Diabetes UK and published in The Lancet found that 46% of participants achieved remission of type-2 diabetes within 12 months through a low-calorie diet and structured lifestyle changes.

Weight Loss and Diabetes Reversal: Why Losing Kilos Matters More Than You Think

Excess fat stored in the liver and pancreas disrupts insulin production and action, leading to insulin resistance, the root cause of type-2 diabetes.

A Yale School of Medicine study revealed that losing just 10% of body weight can significantly reduce liver and pancreatic fat, improving insulin sensitivity.

Practical Tips for Weight Loss in Diabetes:

• Aim for modest weight loss: Even a 5% reduction in body weight can improve blood sugar control.
• Follow a calorie-controlled diet: Under professional supervision, a low-calorie plan can help reduce internal fat deposits quickly.
• Stay active: Daily walks, cycling, or swimming improve glucose metabolism and support sustainable fat loss.

Can Walking Really Help Reverse Diabetes?

Walking is one of the most underrated tools in diabetes management. While walking alone may not reverse diabetes, when combined with calorie restriction and weight loss, it becomes a powerful catalyst.

A ScienceDirect trial found that lifestyle programmes combining low-calorie diets with step goals helped nearly one-third of participants achieve diabetes remission within a year.

Why Walking Still Matters:

• Post-meal walks (10–20 minutes) can dramatically reduce glucose spikes.
• A faster walking pace is associated with a lower risk of developing diabetes, according to NIH research.

Expert Tip: Aim for 20–30 minutes of brisk walking daily, especially after meals, and track your step count for motivation.

How Sleep Quality Can Influence Diabetes Reversal

Sleep is often the most ignored pillar of diabetes care. According to PubMed Central, poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep can impair glucose metabolism and worsen insulin resistance, even if diet and exercise are on track.

Practical Ways to Improve Sleep:

• Maintain a fixed bedtime routine
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, or heavy meals before bed
• Engage in yoga or meditation to reduce stress
• Incorporate regular daytime physical activity for deeper rest
• Good sleep improves hormonal balance, reduces cravings, and supports better insulin sensitivity, making it essential for anyone aiming to reverse diabetes.

Exercise and Diabetes Reversal: Why Movement Is Medicine

According to Harvard Health, regular exercise is one of the strongest tools in managing and potentially reversing type-2 diabetes.

It not only regulates blood sugar and aids in weight management but also:

• Lowers blood pressure
• Reduces harmful LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
• Increases beneficial HDL cholesterol
• Boosts energy and mood

A Harvard study found that people who exercised 150 minutes per week were four times more likely to achieve normal blood sugar levels compared to those who exercised less.

Alcohol and Blood Sugar: Why Quitting Helps the Most

Among all lifestyle changes, quitting alcohol can have one of the most dramatic effects on blood sugar control.

Dr Shailesh Singh stressed this as a non-negotiable step in his friend’s reversal journey. Alcohol affects insulin sensitivity and liver function, making glucose management harder.

A National Institutes of Health (NIH) study found that people who reduced or quit alcohol entirely showed improved fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity.

So, Can Karela Juice Cure Diabetes?

While bitter gourd (karela) is rich in bioactive compounds that can help lower blood sugar, it is not a standalone cure. An NIH study noted its rapid hypoglycaemic effect, but experts agree that it should only be used as a supportive dietary measure, not as a replacement for healthy habits or prescribed medication.

True Reversal Lies in Routine, Not in Remedies

Diabetes reversal is not about shortcuts, it’s about sustainable lifestyle shifts that collectively restore balance.
Walking aids weight loss, weight loss boosts insulin sensitivity, good sleep regulates hormones, and giving up alcohol enhances all of these effects.

As Dr Shailesh Singh’s post reminds us, the real “magic” isn’t in a glass of karela juice, it’s in the discipline behind every choice you make daily.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.